FridayOL

Singaporean Students Deliver Clean Water and Hygiene Facilities to Iloilo Elementary School

A group of 24 dedicated students from the National University of Singapore (NUS) recently touched down in Iloilo, Philippines, embarking on a two-week Youth Expedition Project (YEP) with a mission to transform the lives of students at an elementary school in Barangay Layog. The project focused on constructing a much-needed water system and wash area, addressing a critical need within the community.

For the students of Barangay Layog Elementary School, access to clean water and proper sanitation has been a long-standing challenge. The lack of these basic necessities has impacted their health, hygiene, and overall well-being, hindering their ability to focus on their education. Recognizing this pressing issue, the NUS students, through the YEP program, stepped in to make a tangible difference.

The YEP Project: A Collaborative Effort

The Youth Expedition Project (YEP) is a hallmark program of the National University of Singapore, designed to foster global citizenship and provide students with opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge to address real-world challenges. This particular YEP initiative involved meticulous planning and collaboration with local community members, school officials, and engineers to ensure the project’s sustainability and effectiveness.

The NUS team worked tirelessly alongside the local community, engaging in hands-on construction and learning valuable lessons about Filipino culture and resilience. The water system installation included the construction of a rainwater harvesting system, storage tanks, and a network of pipes to deliver clean water to the school. The newly built wash area provides students with a safe and hygienic space to practice proper handwashing and maintain personal cleanliness.

More Than Just Infrastructure: A Lasting Impact

Beyond the tangible infrastructure improvements, the YEP project has fostered a sense of hope and optimism within the Barangay Layog community. The students' dedication and hard work have inspired the local community, demonstrating the power of international collaboration and youth engagement.

“This project is about more than just building a water system; it’s about building relationships and creating a lasting impact,” said [Quote from NUS student leader - if available, otherwise remove]. “We are incredibly grateful for the warm welcome and support we received from the community, and we hope that this project will contribute to a brighter future for the students of Barangay Layog Elementary School.”

Looking Ahead

The successful completion of this YEP project serves as a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives in addressing global challenges. NUS continues to support similar projects across Southeast Asia, empowering students to become responsible global citizens and contribute to sustainable development. The students of Barangay Layog Elementary School can now look forward to a healthier and more conducive learning environment, thanks to the generosity and dedication of their Singaporean counterparts.